Building Healthy Habits: Finding More Joy and Humor in Life
Knowing the benefits of laughter is one thing, but how do we actually bring more of it into our lives, especially when we don’t feel particularly cheerful? The key is to think of it not as a spontaneous event that we have no control over, but as a habit we can gently and intentionally cultivate. Here are some practical, simple strategies to get you started on building your own laughter therapy routine.
Start a “Humor Journal”
This is a wonderfully simple yet profound exercise. Get a simple notebook and, at the end of each day, write down one thing that made you smile or laugh. It doesn’t have to be a big, hilarious event. Maybe it was a silly squirrel in your backyard, a funny line you overheard at the grocery store, or a fond, amusing memory that popped into your head. The act of looking for something funny trains your brain to notice the humor and joy that is already present in your daily life. Over time, you’ll find yourself becoming more attuned to the lighter side of things.
Schedule Your Laughter
This might sound a little strange, but we schedule doctor’s appointments and lunch with friends, so why not schedule time for joy? Intentionally set aside 15-20 minutes a day for a “laughter session.” Use this time to actively seek out something that you know will make you laugh. This could be:
- Watching a classic sitcom you’ve always loved.
- Putting on a stand-up comedy special from a favorite comedian.
- Listening to a lighthearted or funny podcast.
- Calling that one friend or family member who always has a funny story to tell.
By making it a part of your daily routine, you ensure that even on tough days, you get that vital dose of healing humor.
Explore Laughter Yoga
Have you heard of this? Laughter Yoga is a practice that combines laughter exercises with deep, yogic breathing. The amazing thing is that your body can’t tell the difference between “fake” or simulated laughter and the real thing. You get the same physiological benefits either way. Often, the act of willfully laughing in a group setting leads to genuine, contagious laughter anyway! You can find guided sessions online or see if there are any groups in your local community center. It’s a fantastic way to laugh for the pure health of it, without needing a joke to get started.
Find the Humor in the Everyday
Life is full of small, absurd moments. The other day, I was trying to pour cereal and completely missed the bowl. For a second, I was annoyed at the mess. Then, I took a breath and just had to laugh at the ridiculous image of all those little oat circles scattered on the counter. We have a choice in these moments: we can get frustrated, or we can see the gentle, harmless humor in our own imperfections. Choosing to laugh at life’s little mishaps is a powerful tool for building resilience and keeping your perspective light.
